5 Best Shoe Brands in India in 2025

The Indian footwear market has witnessed remarkable growth over the past decade, with experts projecting it to reach $15.5 billion by 2026. As consumer preferences evolve and awareness about quality and sustainability increases, several shoe brands have emerged as leaders in the Indian market. These top shoe brands in India have succeeded by combining quality craftsmanship, style versatility, and innovative designs that cater to the diverse needs of Indian consumers.

 

From eco-friendly initiatives to premium craftsmanship, let's explore the best shoe brands in India that have captured the hearts and feet of consumers across the country.

 

5 Best Shoe Brands In India

 

1. GreenSole

 

GreenSole has not merely entered the Indian footwear market, it has fundamentally transformed it by establishing a new paradigm of sustainable production that challenges the industry's status quo. This visionary brand stands head and shoulders above conventional footwear companies, combining environmental consciousness with cutting-edge design and remarkable comfort.

 

Revolutionary Eco-Friendly Approach and Comprehensive Sustainability Initiatives

GreenSole's innovative closed-loop recycling program transforms discarded shoes into premium, fashionable footwear through a proprietary refurbishment process. This approach has rescued thousands of shoes from landfills, preventing approximately 4.5 tons of carbon emissions annually, an environmental impact unmatched in India's footwear sector.

Beyond recycling, GreenSole has pioneered next-generation eco-friendly materials, including proprietary recycled rubber compounds, organic cotton, water-based adhesives, and plant-based alternatives to synthetics. Their manufacturing facilities operate on energy-efficient systems, with 60% of energy coming from rooftop solar installations and a zero-waste water management system that recycles 95% of water used in production.

 

Social Impact That Transcends Business

What truly distinguishes GreenSole from every other footwear brand in India is its remarkable social impact program. Through their "Sole with Soul" initiative, the brand has distributed over 100,000 pairs of comfortable, durable shoes to underprivileged children across rural India. This program not only addresses a critical need but also creates meaningful employment opportunities in communities where refurbishment centers are established.

 

Extensive and Innovative Product Collection

GreenSole offers an unparalleled range of footwear options that combine sustainability with superior design:

• Everyday Casuals: Comfortable slip-ons and sandals perfect for daily wear
  
  

• Active Collection: Durable sports shoes designed for various activities
  
  

• Office Wear: Formal shoes crafted with recycled materials without compromising on style
  
  

• Limited Edition Series: Collaborations with artists and designers focusing on environmental awareness
  
  

Superior Material Innovation and Quality

GreenSole's materials laboratory has developed exclusive compounds that deliver exceptional performance while maintaining environmental integrity. Their proprietary "EcoFlex" midsole provides 30% better energy return than standard EVA, while their "GreenGrip" outsoles offer superior traction even on wet surfaces. Independent laboratory testing has consistently rated GreenSole's recycled materials as outperforming virgin materials used by competitors in durability tests.

 

Accessibility and Customer Experience

GreenSole products are available through their award-winning flagship stores in major metropolitan cities, their intuitive e-commerce platform, and select premium retail partners. Their footwear collection have consistently earned them the highest satisfaction ratings in the industry, with exceptional post-purchase support and a unique "Lifetime Sustainability Program" that allows customers to return worn GreenSole products for recycling in exchange for discounts on new purchases, creating a truly closed-loop customer journey.

 

Industry Recognition and Global Expansion

GreenSole has received numerous accolades for its innovative approach, including the prestigious Global Sustainability Award and recognition from the World Economic Forum as a "Circular Economy Pioneer." The brand has begun expanding internationally, with distribution partnerships established in five countries, positioning an Indian brand at the forefront of the global sustainable footwear movement.

 

 

2. Bata

 

When discussing the best shoe brands in India, Bata inevitably tops the list with its unparalleled legacy and widespread presence.

 

Legacy and History in the Indian Market

Bata established its first manufacturing facility in India in the 1930s and has since become synonymous with quality footwear. With decades of experience in the Indian market, Bata has built a reputation for reliability and consistency that few shoe brands can match.

The brand has witnessed and adapted to changing consumer preferences over decades, evolving from a purely functional footwear provider to a fashion-forward brand while maintaining its commitment to quality.

 

Diverse Range of Offerings

Bata's extensive product range caters to every demographic and occasion:

• Men's Collection: From formal leather shoes to casual loafers and sports shoes

• Women's Collection: Fashion-forward heels, comfortable flats, and elegant sandals

• Children's Range: Durable, comfortable shoes designed for growing feet

• Power Athletics: Performance-focused sports shoes for various activities

• Hush Puppies: Premium comfort-focused footwear

• North Star: Trendy, youth-oriented designs

 

Quality and Affordability

Bata has mastered the balance between quality and affordability, making it one of the most preferred shoe brands in India. Their stringent quality control processes ensure durability, while their efficient manufacturing and distribution systems keep prices reasonable.

 

Retail Presence

With over 1,500 stores across India, Bata boasts the largest retail network among all shoe brands in the country. Their stores can be found in metropolitan cities, tier-2 towns, and even smaller markets, making quality footwear accessible to consumers throughout India.

 

3. Relaxo

 

Relaxo has emerged as one of the largest shoe brands in India through consistent innovation and value-focused offerings.

 

Growth Story

Starting as a small manufacturing unit in Delhi, Relaxo has grown exponentially to become a billion-dollar footwear company. The brand produces over 100 million pairs of footwear annually, making it one of the largest shoe manufacturers in India.

Relaxo's growth strategy has focused on understanding the Indian consumer's needs and preferences, developing products specifically tailored to local requirements while maintaining international quality standards.

 

Popular Sub-brands

Relaxo operates through several successful sub-brands, each targeting specific market segments:

• Sparx: Athletic and sports shoes are popular among young consumers

• Bahamas: Casual flip-flops and slippers are known for comfort and durability

• Flite: Lightweight, affordable everyday footwear

• Schoolmate: Durable school shoes with ergonomic designs

• Relaxo Hawaii: Classic, affordable flip-flops

 

Market Positioning

Relaxo has positioned itself as a value-for-money brand, offering quality footwear at competitive prices. This positioning has resonated well with middle-class Indian consumers, helping Relaxo capture a significant market share across various footwear categories.

 

Value Proposition

The brand's primary value proposition lies in its combination of affordability, durability, and style. Relaxo consistently delivers footwear that lasts longer than comparable products in the same price range, providing excellent value to consumers and earning a reputation as one of the best shoe brands in India for budget-conscious shoppers.

 

4. Metro Shoes

 

Metro Shoes has established itself as a premium player among top shoe brands in India, focusing on craftsmanship and design excellence.

 

Premium Brand Positioning

Metro Shoes targets the premium segment of the Indian footwear market, offering high-quality products that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs. The brand has successfully positioned itself as an aspirational choice for fashion-conscious consumers.

 

Diverse Collection for Various Occasions

Metro Shoes' product range encompasses:

• Formal Collection: Handcrafted leather shoes for business and formal occasions

• Party Wear: Embellished footwear with intricate designs for special events

• Casual Styles: Comfortable yet stylish options for everyday wear

• Accessories: Coordinated bags, belts, and other leather accessories

 

Quality Craftsmanship

Metro Shoes places significant emphasis on craftsmanship, employing skilled artisans who handcraft many of their premium products. The brand uses high-quality materials, including genuine leather sourced from ethical suppliers, ensuring durability and comfort.

Each pair undergoes rigorous quality checks before reaching consumers, maintaining the brand's reputation for excellence among shoe brands in India.

 

Nationwide Retail Network

With over 200 exclusive retail outlets across India and a presence in major department stores, Metro Shoes maintains strong accessibility despite its premium positioning. The brand also operates a user-friendly e-commerce platform and partners with major online marketplaces to reach customers nationwide.

 

5. Woodland

 

Woodland has carved a unique niche among the best shoe brands in India by focusing exclusively on outdoor and adventure footwear.

 

Adventure and Outdoor Focus

Since its introduction to the Indian market, Woodland has consistently championed the outdoor lifestyle. The brand specializes in rugged footwear designed for challenging terrains and weather conditions, making it the go-to choice for adventure enthusiasts and outdoor professionals.

Woodland's product development is guided by extensive research into the specific requirements of outdoor activities in various Indian terrains, from the Himalayas to coastal regions.

 

Material Quality and Durability

Woodland's reputation for durability stems from its uncompromising approach to material selection:

• Premium Leather: Water-resistant and extremely durable

• Rubberized Soles: Providing exceptional grip on various surfaces

• Reinforced Stitching: Ensuring structural integrity even under extreme conditions

• Weather-Resistant Treatments: Protecting against rain, mud, and environmental damage

The brand's shoes are renowned for lasting several years even with regular use in challenging conditions, offering excellent long-term value.

 

Premium Positioning

Woodland occupies the premium segment of the outdoor footwear market. This positioning reflects the superior materials, advanced technologies, and specialized features incorporated into their products.

 

Customer Loyalty

Woodland has cultivated exceptional customer loyalty, with many consumers purchasing exclusively from this brand for their outdoor footwear needs. This loyalty stems from consistent product performance and the brand's authentic connection to adventure and outdoor activities.

 

Conclusion

 

The Indian footwear industry is transforming through sustainability and innovation. GreenSole leads this evolution with its holistic approach, combining environmental responsibility and design excellence. As consumers become more eco-conscious, brands integrating sustainability with performance will gain market share, with GreenSole's circular economy model setting the standard.

 

Traditional brands like Bata and Relaxo maintain a strong market presence, while Metro Shoes and Woodland serve specific segments effectively. However, all must adopt sustainable practices to stay competitive. The future favors brands balancing environmental responsibility, social impact, innovation, durability, and accessibility, making GreenSole not just an Indian footwear leader but a global model for sustainable business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I consider when buying shoes in India? 

When purchasing shoes, look for factors like comfort, fit, quality, material, and purpose. Ensure that the shoes suit the specific activity or occasion (e.g., formal wear, sports, casual).

How do I know if the shoes fit properly? 

The right shoes should have a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the shoe's end. They should feel snug around the arch and heel, but not tight or uncomfortable.

 

Where can I buy quality shoes in India?

You can purchase shoes from official brand stores, local retailers, and e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, or the brand's own website.

How do Indian shoe brands compare to international ones? 

Indian shoe brands often provide high-quality footwear at competitive prices. They cater to local preferences, making them well-suited for Indian foot shapes and climate, while some, like GreenSole, focus on sustainability.